Shaving pubic hair is a personal choice that many people make for a variety of reasons. While some enjoy the smooth feel and appearance of a hairless pubic area, shaving does come with some risks and things to consider. This article will explore the pros and cons of shaving pubic hair to help you decide if it’s the right choice for you.
Pros of shaving pubic hair
Here are some potential benefits of shaving your pubic hair:
- Smooth feel – Shaving leaves the pubic area feeling smooth and soft to the touch. Many people enjoy this smoothness during foreplay and sex.
- Appearance – Some people prefer the aesthetic look of a hairless pubic area. It can make the genitals appear more visible and prominent.
- Hygiene – Shaving can help reduce pubic hair that may trap sweat, urine, menstrual blood and odors.
- Easier checking for signs of infection – With less hair, it can be easier to visually inspect the vulva for any signs of infection or abnormalities.
- Increase sensitivity – Removing pubic hair exposes the bare skin of the vulva and may increase sexual sensations and stimulation.
- Preference of partner – Some choose to shave their pubic hair based on the grooming preferences of their sexual partner.
- Easier use of menstrual products – Menstrual pads and cups can sometimes stick less to hairless skin.
- Clothing and swimwear – A hairless pubic area can reduce lines or bulges seen through tight-fitting clothing, lingerie or swimwear.
Cons of shaving pubic hair
Some potential downsides of shaving pubic hair include:
- Ingrown hairs – Shaving carries a high risk of ingrown hairs developing within a few days. Ingrown hairs can become red, itchy and painful.
- Bumps and irritation – Shaving can cause red bumps, skin irritation and folliculitis (infection of the hair follicles). This can be itchy and uncomfortable.
- Cuts and nicks – Razors can easily cut or nick the delicate skin of the vulva and labia, which can be painful and increase infection risk.
- Stubble – Stubble from new hair growth can feel rough and prickly as it starts growing back.
- Frequent upkeep – Pubic hair regrows quickly, so shaving needs to be repeated every few days to keep the area hair-free.
- Increased sweat and oil – Shaving can increase sweating and oil production in the pubic area, making it feel damp and slick.
- Skin abrasions during sex – The smooth skin of a shaved pubic area provides less protection and lubrication during sex. This can cause abrasions and small tears.
- Increased risk of STIs – Removal of pubic hair leaves the genital skin more exposed and vulnerable to skin-to-skin STIs.
- Urinary tract infections – Pubic hair removal may disrupt the natural bacteria of the pubic area, potentially increasing UTI risk.
Tips for shaving pubic hair
If you do choose to shave your pubic hair, following some best practices can help reduce irritation, ingrown hairs and nicks:
- Use a new, sharp razor – Dull blades are more likely to cause irritation. Replace your razor frequently.
- Shave with the grain – Shave in the direction your pubic hair grows to minimize irritation.
- Use a moisturizing shaving cream or gel – This helps protect skin and provide a smoother shave.
- Take it slow – Rushing increases the chances of cuts and nicks. Gently shave in short, smooth strokes.
- Shave when damp, not wet – Shaving after a shower softens hairs, but shaving wet skin can remove its protective oils.
- Moisturize after shaving – Apply a fragrance-free moisturizer to soothe skin and reduce ingrown hairs.
- Avoid tight clothes after shaving – Tight clothes can irritate freshly shaved skin. Wear loose, breathable fabrics.
- Exfoliate regularly – Gently exfoliating can help ingrown hairs surface.
- Let it grow out – Take occasional breaks from shaving to allow the skin to heal.
Alternative pubic hair removal options
If you want to remove pubic hair but want to avoid risks from shaving, some other options include:
- Depilatory cream – Chemical hair removal creams dissolve hair above the skin. The results last longer than shaving but can cause skin irritation.
- Waxing – Waxing pulls hair out from the root and provides smoother results that last 3-6 weeks. But it can be painful and lead to ingrown hairs.
- Epilator – Epilators pull out hairs mechanically. It lasts a few weeks but can be uncomfortable at first.
- Electrolysis – Electrolysis destroys the hair follicle so hair cannot regrow. It requires multiple treatments over weeks or months but provides long-lasting results.
- Laser hair removal – Laser targets and damages the roots to achieve permanent hair reduction over several treatments. It is expensive but efficient.
The risks of going fully bare
Removing all of your pubic hair, so that the area is fully bare, does come with some unique risks to consider:
- Increased irritation – Friction from clothing, sex and exercise can more easily irritate and inflame bare genital skin.
- Higher infection risk – Pubic hair naturally helps protect against bacteria and viral infections entering the genital area and urethra.
- Greater chance of STD transmission – Lack of hair reduces a barrier against skin contacting infectious secretions during sex.
- Higher incidence of molluscum contagiosum – This common viral skin infection spreads more easily to areas without pubic hair.
- Difficulty controlling sweat and odor – Pubic hair helps control moisture and minimize odors from sweat glands near the genitals.
Your partner’s preferences
Deciding how much or how little pubic hair to have is a personal choice. You do not have to base this choice on a partner’s preferences. Open communication can help avoid making assumptions about what a partner likes or wants. Ultimately, you should feel comfortable with your own grooming preferences.
Cultural and social factors
The decision to remove pubic hair is influenced by cultural norms and social pressures. Views on female pubic hair removal have shifted over time.
- Earlier in the 20th century, removing pubic hair was considered taboo.
- The bikini bathing suit trend began increasing pubic hair removal in the 1940s.
- By the 1980s, the Brazilian wax emerged as a trend toward total bareness.
- Today, bare pubic areas are common in mainstream media, porn and advertising.
Younger generations of women are more likely to choose no pubic hair compared to older generations. But a completely bare look is not the only option. Many styles like the classic bikini line or triangular “landing strip” wax continue to remain popular.
Cost considerations
If you choose ongoing pubic hair removal, the costs can add up over time:
| Method | Cost |
|---|---|
| Shaving at home | Cheap (razors and shaving cream) |
| Waxing at salon | Expensive ($30-$100 per visit) |
| Laser hair removal | Very expensive ($200-$400 per 4-6 treatments) |
Making pubic hair removal a frequent routine can become costly. The permanent reduction of laser hair removal may make it worthwhile for some.
Health considerations
For certain medical conditions, keeping or removing pubic hair may be recommended:
- Keeping hair may be preferred for those prone to frequent UTIs or skin infections, as the hair provides some protection.
- Removing hair may be recommended for some gynecological surgeries for easier access and healing.
- Trimming hair short may be advised to improve medication absorption and adhesion if using creams on the genitals.
Discuss your unique case with your doctor to determine if pubic hair removal is recommended for your health conditions.
During and after pregnancy
Pubic hair grooming considerations for pregnant women and new mothers include:
- The skin becomes more sensitive during pregnancy, making shaving more likely to cause irritation.
- If you maintain a hairless pubic area, stubble regrowth can be itchy and uncomfortable as the skin expands.
- Leaving some hair may be preferred to protect sensitive postpartum skin during the healing process.
- New mothers should be gentle and cautious when shaving near recovering episiotomy or tear sites.
For teens and young adults
Things for teenagers and young women to consider about pubic hair removal:
- There are no medical benefits to removing pubic hair during the teen years. It is purely for personal preference.
- Removing too much hair at a young age can increase risks of skin irritation and infection.
- Waxing and laser hair removal are not recommended for girls who have not fully gone through puberty.
- Teens with concerns about grooming norms should talk openly with parents or doctors.
Conclusion
Shaving your pubic hair is ultimately a personal choice that some women enjoy while others prefer to go natural. There are reasonable benefits to both options. The key is making an informed decision based on the pros and cons, your personal preferences and comfort level. It is normal and healthy to make pubic grooming decisions that make you feel happy and confident.